Description
A quick and flavorful Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic recipe that combines tender shrimp, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This easy one-pan dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Orzo
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Flavoring
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo well and set aside to keep it ready for the shrimp mixture.
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, which brings out its aromatic flavor.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating that they are perfectly cooked.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest along with salt and pepper to taste, infusing the shrimp with a refreshing citrus aroma and seasoning it well.
- Combine Orzo and Garnish: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbal freshness before serving.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined for the best texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
- Orzo can be cooked a little ahead of time and refrigerated to save time.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
